Why Chidorigafuchi is special ?

During springtime, the parks and green spaces in Tokyo and around Japan come to life with colorful pink blossoms. Springtime is cherry blossom season, and for the best viewing in the city, head to Chidorigafuchi. With walkways, bridges, pavilions and boats plying the waters of the surrounding moat, there are plenty of places to view the spectacle in April when the sakura cherry trees bloom. Located along the edge of the Imperial Palace moat, Chidorigafuchi is also home to a National Cemetery where the remains of the thousands of unknown Japanese soldiers who died in World War II were laid to rest. Early April typically represents the peak of cherry blossom season, but in the days and weeks following, it often appears to be snowing as the trees begin to drop their blossoms. Even if you can’t make it during springtime, the park makes for a pleasant green escape from the city throughout the year. From here you can tour some of the gardens of the Imperial Palace or rent a boat from the Chidorigafuchi Boathouse and row on the moat.

What to explore at Chidorigafuchi?

Currently, Chidorigafuchi Park is developed next to Chidorigafuchi Pedestrian Path and Hanzo Moat. From late March to early April, the 700 m-long pedestrian path will be covered with the blossoms of about 260 cherry trees of different species, such as Somei-Yoshino and Oshima-Zakura. The trees are lit up at night in the cherry blossom season, and a gorgeous tunnel of flowers creates an especially magical atmosphere. Another well-known viewing spot for cherry blossoms, along with the pedestrian path, is Chidorigafuchi Park. These representative spots for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo are visited by more than 1 million people every year.

There is also a boat pier in Chidorigafuchi. Looking up at the cherry blossoms from the water surface is particularly inspiring. In addition to the cherry blossom season, Chidorigafuchi can be enjoyed throughout the year, with a different appearance each season.

Reviews

This is one of THE places to see the famous cherry blossoms if you happen to be in Tokyo during early April. It is across the street from the Yasakuni Shrine, which is another of the great places to see the blooms so I usually go here every year. Basically it is a remnant of the old moat that protected Edo Castle. Only the gate remains but it is impressive none the less. In the off season it is a local dog walking venue, but still a nice bit of green in an otherwise rather bleak urban environment.